Livvy Dunne Opens Up About Body Image Struggles in Gymnastics
Gymnast Livvy Dunne sheds light on the challenges of body image within elite gymnastics, emphasizing that it is a common struggle, especially for young girls navigating the sport's demands. In an interview with Flaunt published on October 11, the 21-year-old Louisiana State University athlete acknowledged the prevalence of anorexia and body image issues in artistic sports, attributing it to the intense scrutiny faced by athletes.
Dunne reflected on her personal experience, stating, "Growing up in elite gymnastics, it was very hard with body image. Being a young girl going through puberty, it’s hard to be in a leotard." She highlighted the pervasive judgment within the gymnastics community, noting that while she exudes confidence, the battle with body image persists. Dunne aims to normalize these struggles, reassuring young girls that such feelings are common and valid.
Addressing the objectification of women in the public eye, Dunne emphasized that women are not accountable for how they are perceived or objectified by others. She emphasized the importance of staying true to oneself amidst external pressures, stating, "When there are more eyes on you, there are more people trying to tear you down constantly. I’m just trying to stick to what I believe and what’s true to me."
Furthermore, Dunne expressed her delight in inspiring young girls to pursue collegiate gymnastics, recounting how she has motivated many to create gymnastics videos for platforms like TikTok. She encouraged creativity and self-expression, underscoring the significance of empowering young girls to channel their passion into artistic endeavors.
Despite her success and influence, Dunne has been candid about the challenges of navigating public attention, particularly concerning her relationship with rookie pitcher Paul Skenes from the Pittsburgh Pirates. Speaking exclusively to Us Weekly at the 2024 ESPYS red carpet in July, Dunne shared insights into maintaining privacy while being in the public eye.
Describing the complexities of their long-distance relationship, Dunne revealed, "We’re always in different states. We try to see each other as much as possible, especially while it’s my offseason during the summer. When it’s his offseason, he’ll come to LSU and visit me." The gymnast highlighted the difficulties of balancing personal life with public scrutiny, emphasizing the importance of cherishing moments together despite the challenges.
Livvy Dunne's journey not only showcases the realities of body image struggles in elite sports but also underscores the resilience and determination required to navigate public visibility. By sharing her experiences and advocating for self-acceptance, Dunne continues to inspire young athletes to embrace their uniqueness and pursue their passions with confidence.
